Tips & Tricks for Removing Masking Tape

So you painted your room, and missed a bit of that masking tape when pulling it down? One of the kids stuck some tape on a window or piece of furniture and you didn't notice it? That is a problem run across often when masking tape dries out it is impossible to get the sticky residue off. I am experienced in the art of taking that goop off and hope you will find some of the following hints helpful to you in your removal.

Tips

1. Start with a basic, get a small bowl of warm water and a cloth. Dip the cloth into the warm water and rub it over the tape firmly to get it good and moist. Make sure you let the moisture sit for 10-15 minutes; give it a chance to soften everything up. You should than be able to pull the masking tape off. Use a single edged razor on any extra bits of residue that stay behind.

2. If the area your tape is stuck on will not be damaged by heat, you can try a hair dryer. Let the hot air from the dryer blow over the tape and warm it up, this should soften the tape and glue. Than peel it away, like you would with the water method.

3. When in doubt go with a commercial aide. There are some great products out there that can help, the two best I have found is Goo Gone® and Wd-400®. Follow the directions on the container; this method is much like the removal method with the water just using something commercial. Apply the solution, allow it to sit and peel off the tape. You may need that trusty single edged razor for this one as well.